1999 Ford Escort vs. 1979 Mazda 121
To start off, 1999 Ford Escort is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Ford Escort (131 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 121 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1999 Ford Escort.
Because 1979 Mazda 121 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1979 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Ford Escort, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1999 Ford Escort (178 Nm) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm). This means 1999 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Ford Escort | 1979 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escort | 121 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.9 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1124 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2520 mm |
